SJO Jazz Band Takes on Music in the Mall

Post navigation

Parker Manktelow, St. Joseph’s Catholic High School

Jack Wild once said, “There is no buzz like performing for a live audience,” and that is exactly what the St. Joseph’s Jazz Band has experienced. Music teacher and conductor, Ms Tamburri, along with 12 talented musicians from St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in Barrie, travelled to Georgian Mall to showcase their talents and take part in Music in the Mall. This event, supported by the Barrie Music Festival, is an opportunity given to Barrie’s elite musicians.

On January 26, the band, known as The Midnight Hour, played a 45-minute set list, performing classic hit songs from Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” to Chicago’s “25 or 6 to 4.” During their appearance, the band was welcomed by over 70 spectators, from children to grandparents to curious shoppers.

Taylor H., one of the band’s saxophone instrumentalists, touched on her experience, saying, “It was so nice to see our community come together to enjoy music. It was rewarding to know all of our hours of practising paid off.” A father of a performer recalled how excited the young children were listening to the band, “Seeing the kids clapping and dancing to the music was really special. The St. Joseph’s students bring so much talent to the community.”

Thrilled with their performance, the Jazz Band is looking forward to playing at other venues second semester. Possible upcoming shows will be at St. Mary’s Parish, downtown Barrie, and local restaurants. The purpose of the show was to promote SJO’s music department and shed light on some of Barrie’s amazing musicians.